When Chassidus was beginning to be propagated in Russia and Lithuania, the Alter Rebbe passed through the city of Shklov (a city inhabited by the opponents of Chassidism). The Rebbe ascended the platform in the city's large shul and in his characteristic, sing-song delivery, called out the passage (Tehillim 34:9): "Taste and see that G-d is good."

At that time the Rebbe was accustomed to delivering brief Torah thoughts.

His words left his heart and entered the hearts of the listeners. Subsequently numerous young men flocked toward him who later dedicated themselves to the study of Chassidus. Soon after, the Alter Rebbe's chassidic following grew into a vast community.

Toras Menachem 5713, vol. 3, pp. 65-66